ALLAN J. OLSON

What did you do before acceptance to medical school?
I worked as an airplane pilot, I did some real estate development and
construction, I was a practicing lawyer in Alaska, and I was involved in real estate investment. I also did extensive volunteering with a search and rescue group in central Oregon, during which time I became an emergency medical technician.

Do you have family, children and/or a significant other? Did they come to Statia with you? What have they done on Statia to keep busy?
Mary, my wife, lives on Statia with me - our two sons are grown and on their own. Mary volunteers with STENAPA (the national parks organization on Sint Eustatius) and participates in various activities with the spouses and families of other medical students.

Why did you choose USESOM for medical school?
I applied to several medical schools in the U.S. without success. Of the Caribbean medical schools, I chose USESOM primarily because of the small class size and the non-tourist, non-commercial nature of the island.

In what area of medicine do you plan to practice?
I expect to do family practice in a rural or other underserved area. I plan to work at least some of the time outside the United States.

What are your best memories, favorite things, about medical school on Statia?
Most of all I will remember the outstanding group of students we have. I
have become acquainted with people from many countries - the extent of the cultural diversity of my classmates is a very strong point in favor of the school. Many of the students sacrifice a great deal to be here and go through this program, and I find them to be a constant source of inspiration. I enjoy the hiking opportunities on the island, as well as swimming, snorkeling and SCUBA diving in the warm water.

After your Basic Sciences education is complete, will you return to Statia for a visit?
A return to Statia for a visit will depend on how the school develops. I do not anticipate returning for a vacation, but I would consider coming back if I had the opportunity to participate in something meaningful for the school or the residents of the island.

Allan J. Olson is a second year medical student at USESOM.

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